“No One Can Tell MS Dhoni to Sit Out”: Badrinath Opens Up on CSK Dressing Room Reality“
Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath believes it would be extremely difficult for the Chennai Super Kings team management to leave Mahendra Singh Dhoni out of the playing XI in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League.
Dhoni is set to return for Chennai Super Kings in the 2026 campaign, with franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan already confirming that the veteran will be available for the entire tournament. However, the exact role he will play during matches is yet to be finalised.
According to Viswanathan, the final decision will rest with the team management, who will determine whether Dhoni continues as the wicketkeeper or is used as an impact player depending on the match situation.
The 44-year-old had a relatively quiet season in IPL 2025. Dhoni scored 196 runs from 14 matches, batting mostly in the lower order. He averaged 24.50 with a strike rate of 135.17, often coming in during the closing stages of the innings to provide quick runs for the team.
Despite questions about his role, Badrinath believes the management would find it almost impossible to bench the legendary captain because of the stature and respect he commands within the franchise.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former CSK batter suggested that even head coach Stephen Fleming might find it difficult to make such a call.
“I don’t know if it is an administrative decision where the CEO said Dhoni is ready to play all matches. Now, will Fleming go and tell Dhoni that you don’t play this match, we are dropping you? I don’t think that’s possible,” Badrinath said.
He further emphasised the immense respect Dhoni enjoys inside the CSK dressing room. According to him, it would be extremely hard for any member of the coaching staff to even suggest that the former India captain should sit out or be used only as a substitute.
“I don’t think any support staff in the world, even Fleming, can tell Dhoni that you are just an impact player or that you won’t play this match. There is no chance. We can assume that he is going to play all the matches,” he added.
Dhoni remains one of the most iconic figures in IPL history, and his presence continues to be a major boost for Chennai Super Kings both on and off the field. Fans will once again be eager to see the legendary captain in action when the new season begins.
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